Political Science · Ch 4 — International Organisations
India and the UN Reforms
India and the UN Reforms
India’s position on UN reform is rooted in the belief that the organisation must be strengthened and revitalised to remain relevant in a changing world. The country has consistently argued for a more prominent role for the UN in promoting development and cooperation among states. For India, development is not a secondary concern — it is a vital precondition for the maintenance of international peace and security, and therefore must be central to the UN’s agenda.
The most pressing issue for India has been the composition of the Security Council. While the UN General Assembly has expanded considerably over the decades, the Security Council’s membership has remained largely static. This, India argues, has harmed the representative character of the Council. An expanded Council with more representation would enjoy greater support in the world community.
The Security Council was expanded once — from 11 to 15 members in 1965 — but the number of permanent members did not change. Since then, the size of the Council has remained stationary.
The overwhelming majority of UN General Assembly members today are developing countries. India argues that these countries should have a role in shaping the decisions of the Security Council that affect them. Therefore, India supports an increase in both permanent and non-permanent members. Its representatives have pointed out that the activities of the Security Council have greatly expanded in recent years, and the success of its actions depends on the political support of the international community. Any restructuring plan must be broad-based — for example, the Security Council should include more developing countries.
Not surprisingly, India itself wishes to be a permanent member in a restructured UN. The case it makes rests on several grounds:
- India is the most populous country in the world, comprising almost one-fifth of the world population.
- It is the world’s largest democracy.
- India has participated in virtually all initiatives of the UN.
- Its role in UN peacekeeping efforts is long and substantial.
- India’s economic emergence on the world stage justifies its claim.
- India has made regular financial contributions to the UN and never faltered on its payments.
India is also aware that permanent membership carries symbolic importance. It signifies a country’s growing importance in world affairs, and this greater status is an advantage in the conduct of foreign policy — the reputation for being powerful makes you more influential. …